GP Integrated Mental Health Service (GPIMHS) Community Connector in Dorking

GPIMHS is an emotional and wellbeing service that supports adults aged 18+ in primary care who are experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. Clients are offered extended consultation times, rapid access to practical advice, and tailored support from a multidisciplinary team. The Community Connector plays a key role in the development and mobilisation of integrated primary care mental health services within networks of GP Practices (Primary Care Networks – PCNs).

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Mental Health Practitioner and conduct initial assessments (including risk assessments), triage incoming referrals, support clients in identifying socially‑determined needs and goals, provide self‑management tools, and facilitate personal support plans.
• Deliver motivational and structured psychosocial interventions to promote recovery and wellbeing.
• Complete quality outcome measures with clients and conduct regular reviews (e.g. DIALOG+).
• Encourage client independence through an asset‑based approach that builds on individuals’ strengths, preferences and natural support networks.
• Establish and maintain relationships with GPs, practice staff, health practitioners and a wide range of agencies to ensure coordinated support and continuity of care.
• Work closely with Lived Experience Practitioners within the GPIMHS team, developing effective partnership working, sharing learning and insights, and supporting person‑centred approaches to engagement and care.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of MFT services, pathways and support offers, bridging clients into appropriate services and liaising with MFT teams to strengthen collaborative working.
• Facilitate engagement with key services such as Safe Havens, CMHRS, Adult Social Care, housing providers, family and carer support, financial advice, employment support and local wellbeing activities.
• Assist with community resource mapping, maintain a database of local resources, identify gaps in provision, and collaborate with VCSE organisations to develop needed services.
• Attend regular supervision with the Mental Health Practitioner (case management) and Team Manager (line management).

General Terms of Reference

• Work flexibly across operational sites within the PCN (full‑time, 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday).
• Adhere to all relevant policies and procedures of the employing organisation and partner organisations, with particular attention to confidentiality, Information Governance, health and safety, and Surrey Safeguarding protocols.
• Maintain accurate records in line with governance and GDPR requirements.
• Take responsibility for personal safety and promote safe practices among clients.
• Engage in team meetings, supervision, appraisal and workforce development activities.
• Stay informed about relevant service developments, legislation and best practices.
• Contribute to maintaining safe systems of work and a safe environment.
• Represent the host organisation professionally and uphold its values and ethics in all external engagements.
• Be prepared to undertake other duties to fulfil the objectives of the charity.

Qualifications & Experience

• A diploma or degree in an appropriate subject such as counselling, psychology, social work, probation, mental health or Health and Social Care (Level 3) or NVQ Level 3+ (Essential).
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience of mental health work (Essential).
• Training in motivational interviewing, coaching or similar approaches (Desirable).
• Experience of partnership/collaborative working and of building relationships across a variety of organisations (Desirable).
• Experience working in primary care, secondary care or third‑sector settings (Desirable).
• Ability to travel and work flexibly across Surrey where required (Essential).
• Ability to work flexibly across operational hours and evenings and weekends where required (Essential).

Knowledge, Skills & Information Technology

• Excellent verbal communication and written skills.
• Commitment to accurate, timely and confidential record keeping.
• Knowledge and understanding of community working, lone working and ability to maintain safety whilst working in the community.
• Ability to break down stigma and barriers associated with working with the client group.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team (statutory and voluntary).
• Understanding of personal limitations, ability to identify when to seek advice and support, and deal with issues in a professional manner.
• Ability to use supervision effectively.
• Ability to manage challenging behaviour from clients, such as anger and verbal aggression.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and basic Excel skills.
• Experience of using electronic patient record systems/case management systems (e.g. SystmOne, Halo, IAPTus) and/or ability to learn how to use the electronic patient record system.
• Ability to enter and manipulate data on a database as required by the Service and Commissioners to include in monitoring and reports.
• Ability to work from home and maintain confidentiality and professionalism when and if required using Microsoft Teams and other virtual platforms.

Additional Requirements

• All successful candidates will be required to undertake Enhanced or Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks as well as reference checks.
• This post is exempt from the Protection of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974).
• Background checks at an enhanced level are a condition of any offer of employment.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating a workforce that is diverse, inclusive of all, representative of the community we serve and promotes a positive, can‑do attitude. All appointments and promotions are based on merit and no job applicant or employee will be treated unfairly or discriminated against. We explicitly seek to hire people with lived experience of mental health issues and encourage applications from all community members.